Experiences of neurofeedback therapists in treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Background: Neurofeedback is a neurostimulatory biofeedback behavioural therapy that regulates brain wave levels for optimal cognitive functioning. It has shown promising results for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Aim: To explore and describe the experiences of neurofeedback therapists (NTs) using neurofeedback to treat children and adults with ADHD and their experience of its role and value in treating this condition. Setting: Interviews were conducted in participants' private consultation rooms in Gauteng, South Africa. Methods: In this qualitative study using a descriptive phenomenological approach, six registered NTs with experience of treating ADHD were interviewed. Participants were asked: 'Tell me about your experiences of neurofeedback with ADHD patients in your practice.' Responses were audio-recorded, transcribed and underwent thematic analysis. Results: Participants experienced neurofeedback as an effective treatment for ADHD and other coexisting conditions, such as anxiety and insomnia. Participants felt that the neurofeedback process facilitates a beneficial therapeutic relationship and integrates well with other treatment methods. Challenges faced in practice included certain underlying comorbidities, home environment, poor patient compliance and NTs' level of expertise, which impact treatment outcomes. Conclusion: Neurofeedback therapists expressed an overall positive perception of the value of neurofeedback to reduce ADHD symptom severity and improve quality of life, particularly when used as part of a multimodal approach. Participants identified a need for further education and awareness regarding the use of neurofeedback for ADHD. Contribution: This study has contributed to our understanding of the role of neurofeedback in treating ADHD in the South African setting.

Photodynamic Effects of Thuja occidentalis on Lung Cancer Cells.

The global incidence and mortality rates resulting from lung cancer encapsulate a need to identify more effective treatment protocols. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and homeopathy offer possible anticancer therapies as part of a multi-disciplinary approach. Studies have identified the anticancer effects of Thuja occidentalis L. plant extracts. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Thuja occidentalis (TO) homeopathic mother tincture and TO mediated PDT (TO-PDT) on A549 lung cancer cells. Commercially available A549 cells were pre-treated with TO, or laser irradiation at 660 nm, or the combined treatment (TO-PDT). Cells were analyzed morphologically by inverted light microscopy and Hoechst stain; and biochemically by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and trypan blue assays. Cells treated with TO and TO-PDT demonstrated morphological changes in the cell and cell nuclei indicative of cell death. These groups exhibited a dose dependent increase in LDH release and a decrease in ATP levels and cell viability indicating its cytotoxic and antiproliferative potential. Furthermore, at the same doses, TO when photoactivated in PDT induced enhanced anticancer responses thereby surpassing the effects of treatment with the tincture alone. Results demonstrate how the direct cytotoxic effects of TO can be improved when administered as a photosensitizer in PDT to promote cancer cell death.

Can Nanoparticles in Homeopathic Remedies Enhance Phototherapy of Cancer? A Hypothetical Model.

The continuous rise in cancer incidence places a massive burden on the health sector to increase efforts in the fight against cancer. As a holistic complementary medicine modality, homeopathy has the potential to assist in the supportive and palliative treatment of cancer patients. Recent empirical studies demonstrate the presence of silica and original source nanoparticles in ultra-high dilutions of several homeopathic medicines. Recent studies have also demonstrated the efficacy of phototherapy in inducing the ablation of cancer cells through laser-activated nanoparticle photosensitizers. A new hypothetical research model is presented herein, in an attempt to investigate and compare the phototherapeutic effects of homeopathic source nanoparticles with photosensitizing nanoparticle agents that have previously been tested.

Knowledge and attitudes towards complementary medicine by nursing students at a University in South Africa.

BACKGROUND: The increased popularity of complementary medicine has created the need for patients to receive accurate information from nurses who are front-line healthcare providers. Studies have demonstrated that patients are more likely to discuss other medication and therapy use with nurses, rather than with general practitioners or other health professionals. It is, therefore, important to determine nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards complementary medicine. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine nursing students' knowledge and attitudes toward the use of complementary medicine. SETTING: The study was conducted with Baccalaureus Curationis (nursing) students registered at a large public university in Gauteng, South Africa. METHODS: This research utilised a quantitative approach with a prospective, descriptive survey design. A convenience sample comprising registered Baccalaureus Curationis nursing students (n = 202) was utilized. Participants completed a 34-item, paper-and-pencil questionnaire to determine their knowledge, personal use and attitude toward complementary medicine modalities. RESULTS: Questionnaires were completed by 126 nursing students with 119 questionnaires included for analysis. Despite a reported lack of knowledge regarding complementary medicine and limited personal use, participants had an overall positive attitude towards complementary medicine. Almost half of the participants reported enquiring about its use in history taking and were willing to refer patients to a complementary medicine practitioner. CONCLUSION: A positive attitude towards complementary medicine modalities might suggest a willingness from students to improve their knowledge of the various modalities and to refer to a complementary medicine practitioner when indicated.

Health supplements for allergic rhinitis: A mixed-methods systematic review.

Allergic rhinitis is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by an exaggerated response of the immune system to common allergens. Most pharmacological therapies tend to be palliative and in some cases are associated with adverse effects. There is a growing tendency for people to self-medicate with health supplements as they are generally considered safe, however clinical studies relating to their efficacy and safety are limited. This mixed-methods systematic review aims to synthesise the available evidence relating to the treatment of allergic rhinitis with a variety of health supplements. A total of 57 062 articles were derived from searching seven online databases and evidence from 48 RCTs and 10 observational studies were reviewed for methodological quality and risk of bias. No qualitative studies meeting the inclusion criteria could be found, therefore only a quantitative review was performed. Promising evidence for the following single supplements were found: apple polyphenols, tomato extract, spirulina, chlorophyll c2, honey, conjugated linoleic acid, MSM, isoquercitrin, vitamins C, D and E, as well as probiotics. Combination formulas may also be beneficial, particularly specific probiotic complexes, a mixture of vitamin D3, quercetin and Perilla frutescens, as well as the combination of vitamin D3 and L. reuteri. Owing to the paucity of good quality evidence, recommendations pertaining to the use of health supplements for allergic rhinitis should involve a shared decision-making process between the healthcare provider and the patient, taking into account their efficacy, safety and cost. Further good quality clinical studies and qualitative research would further our understanding of the role these health supplements may play in future treatment protocols.

Perceived effectiveness of complementary medicine by mothers of infants with colic in Gauteng.

BACKGROUND: Infantile colic is a self-limiting condition, characterised by spasmodic, excessive and inconsolable crying without apparent cause. Although common, there is no widely accepted conventional treatment approach for colic. Complementary medicine is often promoted as an alternative therapeutic option for infantile colic; however, there is limited research available on its use, safety and effectiveness. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the perceived effectiveness of complementary medicine by mothers of infants with colic by means of the Infantile Colic Questionnaire. SETTING: Mothers of infants who had colic were recruited from complementary medicine pharmacies, schools, baby clinics and various businesses in Gauteng, South Africa. METHODS: A quantitative-descriptive design was used whereby data was collected through a randomised, cross-sectional questionnaire. The research sample consisted of 152 participants (mothers), aged between 18 and 45 years, with one or more children who suffered from symptoms of infantile colic, who had used complementary medicine as a form of treatment. RESULTS: Results indicated that most participants made use of both complementary and conventional medicines for their infant's colic; the most commonly used complementary medicine products were homeopathic remedies, probiotics and herbal medicines. Some participants were, however, unfamiliar with the term 'complementary medicine', indicating a need for further patient education. CONCLUSIONS: The participants perceived complementary medicines as safe and effective forms of treatment for infantile colic. However, further, larger scale studies should be conducted to validate this finding.

Perceived effectiveness of complementary medicine by mothers of infants with colic in Gauteng

Background: Infantile colic is a self-limiting condition, characterised by spasmodic, excessive and inconsolable crying without apparent cause. Although common, there is no widely accepted conventional treatment approach for colic. Complementary medicine is often promoted as an alternative therapeutic option for infantile colic; however, there is limited research available on its use, safety and effectiveness. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the perceived effectiveness of complementary medicine by mothers of infants with colic by means of the Infantile Colic Questionnaire. Setting: Mothers of infants who had colic were recruited from complementary medicine pharmacies, schools, baby clinics and various businesses in Gauteng, South Africa. Methods: A quantitative-descriptive design was used whereby data was collected through a randomised, cross-sectional questionnaire. The research sample consisted of 152 participants (mothers), aged between 18 and 45 years, with one or more children who suffered from symptoms of infantile colic, who had used complementary medicine as a form of treatment. Results: Results indicated that most participants made use of both complementary and conventional medicines for their infant's colic; the most commonly used complementary medicine products were homeopathic remedies, probiotics and herbal medicines. Some participants were, however, unfamiliar with the term 'complementary medicine', indicating a need for further patient education. Conclusions: The participants perceived complementary medicines as safe and effective forms of treatment for infantile colic. However, further, larger scale studies should be conducted to validate this finding

Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: Primary dysmenorrhoea is a common complaint experienced by many females in their reproductive years. The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of various gynaecological conditions is on the increase, despite the limited evidence available regarding efficacy and safety of their use. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the most recent evidence relating to the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea with medicinal plants. METHODOLOGY: A thorough database search was conducted using defined search terms, and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English between 2008 and 2016, pertaining to the use of medicinal plants (single use) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea, were assessed. Studies evaluating dysmenorrhoeal pain and associated symptoms as a primary or secondary outcome were considered and assessed by two reviewers independently of each other, using the JADAD scale and the Cochrane risk of bias tool,. RESULTS: 22 RCTs were included in the review; 9 were placebo-controlled trials and 13 were comparative studies to pharmacological treatment or nutritional supplements. Most of the evaluated medicinal plants showed evidence of efficacy in relieving menstrual pain in at least one RCT. The low or unclear quality of the majority of these studies however warrants caution in interpreting these results. CONCLUSION: This review adds to the knowledge-base on the use of these medicinal plants in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea. Further research is needed before definitive conclusions can be made regarding the efficacy and safety of the use of these medicinal plants.

Herbal medicine for low sexual desire in menopausal women: A clinical review.

Many women typically experience a significant reduction in sexual desire during the late perimenopausal and early postmenopausal stages, with the biggest decline in sexual desire occurring from three years prior to two years after the final menstrual period. Despite being a prevalent female complaint, currently no standard treatment for low sexual desire exists. Herbal medicines have been used therapeutically all around the world, and are an important component of Traditional and Complementary Medicine. There have been numerous trials and pharmacological studies of specific herbal preparations related to the treatment of low sexual desire. This article serves to provide a clinical review of the evidence relating to the herbal treatment options for this common condition.

Pilot Study on the Homeopathic Treatment of Binge Eating in Males.

Context • Frequent binge eating is often a symptom of an underlying eating disorder, such as bulimia nervosa (BN) or binge eating disorder (BED). The role of homeopathy in the treatment of binge eating remains poorly explored. Objective • The study intended to measure the efficacy of individualized homeopathic treatment for binge eating in adult males. Design • This case study was a 9-wk pilot using an embedded, mixed-methods design. A 3-wk baseline period was followed by a 6-wk treatment period. Setting • The setting was the Homeopathic Health Clinic at the University of Johannesburg in Johannesburg, South Africa. Participants • Through purposive sampling, the research team recruited 15 Caucasian, male participants, aged 18-45 y, who were exhibiting binge eating. Intervention • Individualized homeopathic remedies were prescribed to each participant. Primary Outcome Measures • Participants were assessed by means of (1) a self-assessment calendar (SAC), recording the frequency and intensity of binging; (2) the Binge Eating Scale (BES), a psychometric evaluation of severity; and (3) case analysis evaluating changes with time. Results • Ten participants completed the study. The study found a statistically significant improvement with regard to the BES (P = .003) and the SAC (P = .006), with a large effect size, indicating that a decrease occurred in the severity and frequency of binging behavior during the study period. Conclusions • This small study showed the potential benefits of individualized homeopathic treatment of binge eating in males, decreasing both the frequency and severity of binging episodes. Follow-up studies are recommended to explore this treatment modality as a complementary therapeutic option in eating disorders characterized by binge eating.

Physiotherapy and a Homeopathic Complex for Chronic Low-back Pain Due to Osteoarthritis: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study.

CONTEXT: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of chronic low-back pain (CLBP) and can be managed with drug therapy and physiotherapy. Homeopathic remedies may assist managing OA; however, research that supports their effectiveness is limited. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to investigate the efficacy of a homeopathic complex in combination with physiotherapy in treating CLBP due to OA. DESIGN: The study was a 6-wk, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot. SETTING: The study took place in a private physiotherapy practice in Gauteng, South Africa. PARTICIPANTS: The participants were 30 males and females, aged 45-75 y, who were receiving physiotherapy treatment for OA of the lumbar spine from a therapist in private practice. INTERVENTIONS: The intervention and control groups both received standard physiotherapy treatment-massage, thermal therapy, and joint mobilization-every 2 wk. In addition, the treatment group received a homeopathic complex-6cH each of Arnica montana, Bryonia alba, Causticum, Kalmia latifolia, Rhus toxicodendron, and Calcarea fluorica. The control group a received a placebo. OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary measure was a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Secondary outcome measures included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), an evaluation of each patient's range of motion (ROM) of the lumbar spine, and a determination of each patient's need for pain medication. RESULTS: Intergroup analysis revealed that the treatment group significantly outperformed the control group with regard to pain, daily functioning, and ROM. No difference existed between the groups, however, in the need for conventional pain medication. CONCLUSIONS: The study was too small to be conclusive, but results suggest the homeopathic complex, together with physiotherapy, can significantly improve symptoms associated with CLBP due to OA.

Efficacy of a homeopathic complex on acute viral tonsillitis.

BACKGROUND: Acute viral tonsillitis is an upper respiratory tract infection prevalent in school-aged children. Because this condition is self-limiting, conventional treatment options are usually palliative. Homeopathic remedies are a useful alternative to conventional medications in acute uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections in children, offering earlier symptom resolution, cost-effectiveness, and fewer adverse effects. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of a homeopathic complex on the symptoms of acute viral tonsillitis in African children in South Africa. METHODS: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6-day pilot study. Thirty children, age 6 to 12 years, with acute viral tonsillitis were recruited from a primary school in Gauteng, South Africa. Participants took two tablets of the medication four times daily. The treatment group received lactose tablets medicated with the homeopathic complex (Atropa belladonna D4, Calcarea phosphoricum D4, Hepar sulphuris D4, Kalium bichromat D4, Kalium muriaticum D4, Mercurius protoiodid D10, and Mercurius biniodid D10). The placebo consisted of the unmedicated vehicle only. The Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale measured pain intensity, and a Symptom Grading Scale assessed changes in tonsillitis signs and symptoms. RESULTS: The treatment group had a statistically significant improvement in the following symptoms compared with the placebo group: pain associated with tonsillitis, pain on swallowing, erythema and inflammation of the pharynx, and tonsil size. CONCLUSION: The homeopathic complex used in this study exhibited significant anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving qualities in children with acute viral tonsillitis. No patients reported any adverse effects. These preliminary findings are promising; however, the sample size was small and therefore a definitive conclusion cannot be reached. A larger, more inclusive research study should be undertaken to verify the findings of this study.

The effect of a homeopathic complex on psychophysiological onset insomnia in males: a randomized pilot study.

CONTEXT: Psychophysiological onset insomnia (PI) is defined as sleeplessness exceeding 30 min due to learned, sleep-preventing behaviors and hyperarousal at bedtime. This common condition significantly impacts sufferers' health, occupational performance, and interpersonal relationships. Conventional treatment with hypnotics has many shortcomings. Homeopathic medication may present an alternative treatment for this condition. OBJECTIVE: The study intended to determine the effect of a homeopathic complex on PI. DESIGN: The research team designed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 4-wk pilot study, using matched pairs. SETTING: The study took place at the Homeopathy Health Clinic at the University of Johannesburg in Johannesburg, South Africa. PARTICIPANTS: Forty-six males aged between 18 and 40 y with chronic PI were recruited; 28 completed the study- placebo group (n = 14) and experimental group (n = 14). INTERVENTIONS: The homeopathic complex was made in 20% alcohol. The placebo consisted of the unmedicated vehicle only. OUTCOME MEASURES: The study used the Pre-sleep Arousal Scale (PSAS) and the Sleep Diary (SD), which assessed sleep-onset latency. RESULTS: The experimental group showed a statistically significant improvement in presleep arousal as well as sleep onset latency over the 4 wks of the study. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed that the improvement occurred gradually. Intergroup analysis showed through both the PSAS and the SD that the experimental group had outperformed the placebo group by day 28 of the study. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that daily use of the homeopathic complex does have an effect over a 4-wk period on physiological and cognitive arousal at bedtime as well as on sleep onset latency in PI sufferers. Further research on the use of this complex for PI is warranted before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.

A randomized placebo-controlled pilot study of Cat saliva 9cH and Histaminum 9cH in cat allergic adults.

BACKGROUND: Cat allergy is an abnormal immune response by the body to cat dander or saliva, leading to the development of a complex of symptoms which can negatively influence health. Cat saliva 9cH and Histaminum 9cH are indicated, according to isopathic principles, for the treatment of cat allergy, however no research has been done to date. AIM: To determine the effect of Cat saliva 9cH and Histaminum 9cH (combined) on cat allergic adults. METHOD: 30 Participants with a positive test result for a cat allergy skin prick test (SPT) were recruited to a double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled clinical trial. Participants took two tablets twice daily for 4 weeks, and attended a follow-up consultation at the end of weeks 2 and 4. The measurement tool used was the SPT, conducted at the beginning and at the end of the study. RESULTS: Cat saliva 9cH and Histaminum 9cH produced a highly statistically significant reduction in the wheal diameter of the cat allergen SPT at the end of week 4. The placebo group showed no statistically significant change. CONCLUSION: The homeopathic medicine reduced the sensitivity reaction of cat allergic adults to cat allergen, according to the SPT. Future studies are warranted to further investigate the effect of Cat saliva and Histaminum and their role as a potential therapeutic option for this condition.

Complementary and alternative medical therapies for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a commonly diagnosed childhood disorder characterized by impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. ADHD affects up to 1 in 20 children in the United States. The underlying etiologies of ADHD may be heterogeneous and diverse, and many possible risk factors in the development of ADHD have been identified. Conventional treatment usually consists of behavioral accommodations and medication, with stimulant medication most commonly being prescribed. Parents concerned about the side effects and long-term use of conventional medications are increasingly seeking alternatives to pharmacologic treatment. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) offers parents various treatment options for this condition, including dietary modifications, nutritional supplementation, herbal medicine, and homeopathy. CAM appears to be most effective when prescribed holistically and according to each individual's characteristic symptoms. Possible etiologies and risk factors for the condition also need to be considered when developing a treatment plan. This article serves to highlight the latest research regarding the most commonly used CAM for children with ADHD.